The world is now divided. It's always MAC or PC, frozen yogurt or ice cream, Marvel or DC. It's almost like you have to choose a side, and God forbid you want both Batman and Ironman.
The thing is, it's even worse in the political world. You're constantly being asked if you're Democrat or Republican, red or blue, donkey or elephant. In truth, it is nice to know which party you belong to; to have a group of people that share your similar values and interest. However, along the way, we've gotten away from just seeking a group to identify with. We've developed a strong hatred toward the other side.
Anymore, when I tell someone I'm a member of a particular political party I get, "Oh, well, I don't agree with them." Followed by a snide look or remark.
Every time I go through this, I want to ask the person what it is specifically they disagree with, or if they just hate my party simply because it's different? Honestly, I think that is most of the problem: ignorance toward the other side.
Let me tell you something, just because someone thinks differently than you, doesn't make them bad. Here's another secret it doesn't make them wrong.
We live in a culture where if someone is different, we automatically presume them to be wrong. That is far from the truth. This doesn't just happen in the realm of politics, but across the board. We are so defensive of out ideals, our style and our religion that we presume anyone who challenges that to be bad and wrong.
Now, don't get me wrong, I'm a firm believer in standing up for what you believe in. I also think that it can be done without degrading and hating on another person.
It's time to start learning about the other side instead of wasting our breath telling them how wrong they are.
